chloroplast: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowScientific/Academic
Quick answer
What does “chloroplast” mean?
A small, specialized structure found in the cells of plants and algae that contains chlorophyll and is the site of photosynthesis.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A small, specialized structure found in the cells of plants and algae that contains chlorophyll and is the site of photosynthesis.
The organelle responsible for converting light energy into chemical energy (sugars) for the plant, characterized by its green color and double membrane structure.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning, spelling, or usage. Pronunciation varies slightly.
Connotations
Identical technical connotations.
Frequency
Equally low frequency in both varieties, confined to scientific contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “chloroplast” in a Sentence
The [noun] contains numerous chloroplasts.Chloroplasts [verb] sunlight.Chlorophyll is located in the chloroplast.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “chloroplast” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The chloroplast genome is distinct from the nuclear genome.
- Chloroplast development requires specific signals.
American English
- Chloroplast DNA is inherited maternally in most plants.
- Scientists studied the chloroplast membrane proteins.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Core term in biology, botany, and environmental science courses and research.
Everyday
Extremely rare outside of educational contexts.
Technical
Essential, precise term in plant physiology, genetics (chloroplast DNA), and bioengineering.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “chloroplast”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “chloroplast”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “chloroplast”
- Misspelling as 'chlorplast' (omitting the 'o').
- Confusing it with 'chlorophyll' (the pigment inside the chloroplast).
- Using it as a countable noun for uncountable chlorophyll ('The leaf has green chloroplast' vs. '...has green chlorophyll' or '...has chloroplasts').
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, they are found primarily in the mesophyll cells of leaves and green stems, but not in root cells or non-photosynthetic tissues.
Chlorophyll is the primary green pigment responsible for capturing light energy.
No, animal cells do not have chloroplasts. This is a key distinguishing feature between plant and animal cells.
Yes, chloroplasts have their own DNA and can replicate independently within the cell, a relic of their endosymbiotic origin.
A small, specialized structure found in the cells of plants and algae that contains chlorophyll and is the site of photosynthesis.
Chloroplast is usually scientific/academic in register.
Chloroplast: in British English it is pronounced /ˈklɒrəʊplɑːst/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈklɔːrəˌplæst/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: CHLOE the plant ROPE LAST. Chloe uses a green rope last to tie up her chloroplasts.
Conceptual Metaphor
The chloroplast is the plant's solar panel and kitchen, where it captures sunlight and cooks up food (sugar).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary function of a chloroplast?